Business Buzz: Chamber mixer to be held at Brother’s Custom Processing

The Craig Chamber of Commerce will host an after hours mixer for its members from 5 to 7 p.m. on April 30 at Brother's Custom Processing in Craig. For more information call 970-824-5689.

Local Love You More contest underway

The Downtown Business Association is running the Locals Love You More contest through June 30. Each participating business pays $50 and donates a prize. The prize can be merchandise, gift certificates or Spree Bucks. The $50 goes for prize money and advertising. Call Karen Brown 970-824-7898 or Nadine Daszkiewicz at 970-824-8148 to sign up or for more information.

Know the red flags before hiring contractor

When you've finally decided to embark on a home project, it's human nature to want to get it done as soon as possible. And, because you're in a hurry and don't take time to check out contractors at bbb.org before doing business with them, you could fall victim to unreliable contractors trying to make a fast buck, according to a press release.

BBB advises being especially guarded when contractors, many from out-of-state, start soliciting work door to door after hailstorms that damage roofs, siding and windows. Some of these traveling contractors are here today, gone tomorrow with no avenue for follow up if the project fails to deliver.

Another ruse shady contractors use is to knock at your door to say they just finished a job down the street and have leftover materials they can use to fix your fence or pave your driveway. Legitimate contractors, however, are very careful about ordering just the right amount of materials needed for any given job.

To ensure you get your project finished — and finished to your liking — your BBB offers these tips on how to recognize red flags when dealing with contractors:

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• The contractor knocks at your door to offer his/her services — roofing, asphalt paving, painting, etc. — at a screaming deal good that day only. Trustworthy businesses give you time to do your research before committing to a contract.

• The contractor asks that you acquire the building permit. Reliable contractors — those that are properly bonded and insured — are responsible for getting any required permits.

• The contractor strongly suggests you use his preferred lender. If you need to take out a loan to pay for the project, research lenders (find a list of BBB Accredited Businesses at bbb.org) and interest fees and choose the one that best suits your personal situation.

• The contractor asks that he be paid in cash upfront. BBB advises using the rule of thirds — one-third upfront, one-third midway through the project and the one-third upon successful completion of the project. Pay with a credit card or check and never with cash.